The Google Pixel Slate is a highly anticipated tablet that aims to bridge the gap between Chromebooks and Android tablets. As a flagship device from Google, it boasts impressive specs, a sleek design, and a unique selling proposition – the ability to run both Chrome OS and Android apps.

Design and Display

The Pixel Slate features a stunning 12.3-inch display with a resolution of 3000 x 2000 pixels, providing crisp visuals and vibrant colors. The screen is made from Gorilla Glass 5, ensuring durability against scratches and drops. The device’s body is crafted from aluminum and has a premium feel to it, making it comfortable to hold in your hands.

The Pixel Slate measures 11.45 inches x 7.99 inches x 0.32 inches (290mm x 203mm x 8.3mm) and weighs just 1.59 pounds (720 grams), making it an ideal travel companion for those who want a lightweight device without sacrificing performance.

Performance

Under the hood, the Pixel Slate is powered by Intel’s Core m3, i5, or i7 processors, depending on your configuration choice. The base model features 4GB of RAM and 32GB of eMMC storage, while higher-end versions offer up to 16GB of RAM and 256GB of SSD storage.

For general tasks such as web browsing, email, document editing, and streaming content, the Pixel Slate performs admirably. However, demanding applications like video editing or gaming may require some patience due to the device’s limitations.

Android App Support

One of the Pixel Slate’s most significant features is its ability to run Android apps through Google’s Chrome OS. This means you can access a vast library of Android games and apps on your tablet, including popular titles like Netflix, YouTube, and Instagram.

However, it’s worth noting that not all Android apps are optimized for large-screen devices, so some may appear stretched or distorted. Additionally, some apps may require the use of a keyboard or mouse to function properly, which can be cumbersome at times.

Keyboard and Accessories

Google offers an optional Pixel Slate Keyboard that attaches magnetically to the device’s sides, providing a more traditional laptop-like experience. The keyboard features a compact design with a 1mm key travel distance and a decent typing feel.

Other accessories available for the Pixel Slate include the Pixelbook Pen, which offers precise digital inking capabilities, and the Google Pixel Stand, which provides wireless charging and display optimization when paired with the device.

Battery Life

According to Google, the Pixel Slate’s battery life ranges from 12 hours of web browsing to 14 hours of video playback. In our testing, we achieved around 10-12 hours of mixed usage, which is respectable considering the device’s powerful specs.

Connectivity and Ports

The Pixel Slate features a USB-C port with support for Power Delivery, DisplayPort, and USB OTG, as well as a headphone jack. The device also supports Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax) and Bluetooth 5.0 for seamless connectivity.

Camera and Audio

The Pixel Slate boasts an 8-megapixel rear camera with f/1.8 aperture and 1080p video recording capabilities, while the front-facing camera is a 8-megapixel shooter with f/2.4 aperture. For audio enthusiasts, the device features dual speakers with stereo sound and support for Google Assistant.

Conclusion

The Google Pixel Slate is an impressive Chrome OS tablet that offers a unique blend of performance, portability, and Android app support. While it may not be perfect, its strengths make it an attractive option for those who want a high-end tablet experience without the need for a traditional laptop.

With its competitive pricing starting at $599 (base model) and going up to $1,699 (high-end configuration), the Pixel Slate is definitely worth considering for those in search of a versatile device that can handle both work and play.

Technical Specifications:

• Processor: Intel Core m3, i5, or i7
• RAM: 4GB, 8GB, or 16GB
• Storage: 32GB eMMC, 64GB SSD, 128GB SSD, or 256GB SSD
• Display: 12.3-inch, 3000 x 2000 pixels, Gorilla Glass 5
• Battery Life: Up to 14 hours video playback or 12 hours web browsing
• Connectivity: Wi-Fi 6 (802.11ax), Bluetooth 5.0, USB-C (with Power Delivery and DisplayPort support)
• Camera: Rear-facing 8-megapixel camera with f/1.8 aperture, Front-facing 8-megapixel camera with f/2.4 aperture
• Audio: Dual speakers with stereo sound, Google Assistant